Beginning in the early 1990s, roller coasters began their second Golden Age (the first was during the Jazz-Age 1920s when the wooden lattices dotted the U.S. landscape) and their numbers and variety show no signs of letting up.
Why do we love roller coasters? Who knows? But, it seems, we can't get enough of them.
TOP 10 WOOD COASTERS IN NORTH AMERICA
Number 10 Top Wooden Roller Coaster: CycloneCyclone Coaster Review
Coney Island in Brooklyn, NY
Sure, there may be "better" roller coasters. To say it's not the smoothest ride is an understatement. (One fan I know likened the first drop to riding down the rungs of an 85-foot ladder.) But this classic is one of the originals and holds a special place in the hearts of fans. The Cyclone is nostalgic, yet surprisingly vital, after all these years.
- Coney Island Photo Gallery
- Wonder Wheel at Coney Island Ride Review
- Spook-A-Rama at Coney Island Ride Review
The Top 10 Wood Coasters List continues with numbers 1 to 9.
TOP 10 STEEL COASTERS IN NORTH AMERICA
Number 10 Top Steel Roller Coaster: Ride of SteelRide of Steel Coaster Review
Darien Lake in Darien Center, NY (between Buffalo and Rochester)
Its red track dominates the Darien Lake skyline and can be seen from the roadway leading to the park. Just looking at the impossibly high and steep first drop of the Ride of Steel coaster from a distance gets your adrenaline pumping. Up close, it takes more than a bit of nerve to hop into line and board the super-sized ride. (Note that when Six Flags operated the park, this ride was known as Superman: Ride of Steel. It's similar, but not identical to Bizarro--previously also known as Superman: Ride of Steel--at Six Flags New England.)
The Top 10 Steel Coasters List continues with numbers 1 to 9.
